The study of religion in a college curriculum involves the historical and comparative scrutiny of the religious traditions of Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, Jainism, Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and Shinto. Inevitably, the examination of basic questions about religion, such as the existence and nature of God, religious experience, and the role of religion in society, are central to the discipline.

Faculty

Requirements +

Requirements for the Major in Religious Studies

A minimum of 10 courses, to include at least one from each of the following groups: Eastern religions (211, 212); Judaism and Islam (181, 182, or History 285); Christianity (216 or 236); and Bible (143, 144). The 10 required courses will include three religious studies courses at the 300 level or above; and a senior independent study project. The three required 300-level courses may not include courses from other departments or institutions. The senior independent study project may take one of three forms: a four-credit independent study (491 or 492) sponsored by a member of the religious studies faculty or an approved faculty member from another department; a two-semester project in the honors program (483, 484) described below; or a Senior Scholars project with one mentor from the religious studies faculty. As part of the culminating experience, all seniors are required to present their independent research in a symposium held at the end of the spring semester.

The point scale for retention of the major applies to all courses that count toward the major.

Honors Program in Religious Studies

Students majoring in religious studies may apply during their junior year for admission to the honors program. Students are expected to submit their proposal to the department chair by April 15. Admission is contingent upon GPA of 3.65 or higher in the major at the completion of the junior year. On successful completion of the work for the honors program, including a thesis, students will graduate from the College with “Honors in Religious Studies.”

Requirements for the Minor in Religious Studies

A minimum of six courses in religious studies, including at least one from three of the following groups: Eastern Religions (211 or 212); Judaism and Islam (181, 182, or History 285); Christianity (216 or 236); and Bible (143 or 144). The six required courses will include two religious studies courses at the 300 level or above. The two required 300-level courses may not include courses from other departments or institutions.

Other Applicable Courses +

Courses from Other Departments That Can Serve as Electives in the Religious Studies Major